The Thomistic Institute 2 - The Sacrament Itself & Transubstantiation | Fr. Thomas Joseph White, O.P.
Apr 21, 2024
Fr. Thomas Joseph White, O.P., a Thomistic theologian, discusses Aquinas' view on sacraments, focusing on the Eucharist's transubstantiation. He explores the significance of Christ's presence in the sacrament, the role of faith, charity, and friendship, and compares historical views on transubstantiation by Luther, Calvin, and Zwingli.
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Real Presence Is Known By Faith Not Senses
- The Eucharist's real presence is accessible only by faith, not by sensory proof or philosophical demonstration.
- Aquinas frames belief as fitting because divine authority (Luke 22) and the Fathers interpret 'This is my body' realistly, making the sacrament a mystery received by faith.
Eucharist Fulfills And Perfects Old Testament Sacrifices
- Transubstantiation fits the perfection of the New Law because the Eucharist contains Christ himself, not just a figurative sacrifice.
- Aquinas argues Old Testament sacrifices foreshadowed Christ, so the New Law's sacrifice must be superior by containing the corpus verum.
Eucharist As Christ's Friendly Presence And Sustainer
- The Eucharist expresses Christ's friendship and sustains our supernatural charity by giving his bodily presence to the faithful.
- Aquinas links incarnation and friendship: Christ remains bodily present in glory so believers share a common life with him through Communion.